Looking for creative ways to enjoy the great outdoors this spring and summer? Consider building or buying a gazebo for your yard. This backyard addition not only gives you a place to sit and enjoy fresh air and nature, but also provides shelter and shade during rainy or hot days. Gazebos can also increase the value of your home. In fact, many homebuyers see a tasteful gazebo in the backyard as a major selling point for a home. So, if you’re looking for unique ways to appeal to buyers in a competitive real estate market, it’s not a bad idea to consider adding a gazebo to the premises. Looking for creative gazebo ideas and decorating tips to enhance your home? Below, we’ve listed 7 great gazebo ideas to incorporate into your space – as well as answers to your questions regarding the costs and logistics.
What exactly is a gazebo?
Chances are you’ve seen gazebos in parks and public gardens. They are used for both recreational purposes (think: a bandstand) and for beautifying and decorative purposes. By definition a gazebo is a freestanding structure with a roof to provide shelter. It usually features open sides and is typically hexagonal or octagonal in shape.
7 great gazebo ideas to enhance your yard this spring and summer
1. Install a built-in grill
What better way to cook (and enjoy cooking) than to do it in your own backyard under a shaded gazebo? For the ultimate backyard barbecue this spring and summer, we recommend adding a built-in grill to your gazebo. Not only will having a grill inside your shaded gazebo make it more enjoyable than cooking in the hot summer sun, but it will also provide a place for visitors to sit, gather and socialize during the cooking process.
2. Add a wet bar and wine cooler
If outdoor entertaining is your goal, then adding a wet bar with a sink and wine cooler is one of the best ways to enhance your outdoor gazebo. With an outdoor wet bar, you can have friends and family over for drinks and events without having to step inside your primary home. It will also make it easier to host parties and gatherings outdoors when the weather heats up.
3. Make your gazebo extra comfy with seating and a tv
What good is a gazebo without a comfortable place to sit? One of the easiest gazebo ideas to enhance your outdoor space is to add super comfortable seating around a main focal point, such as a large flat screen TV. This outdoor theater provides a place for you to relax and guests to gather. Note: if the gazebo is located next to a pool – or is at all exposed to the elements – make sure the seating and pillows are covered in waterproof fabrics.
4. Hang string lights around the gazebo
Practical and aesthetically pleasing, string lights are a must on our list of gazebo ideas. After all, without good lighting, how will you be able to sit outside and enjoy your gazebo at night? Hanging string lights around your gazebo and/or on the ceiling is one of the best ways to provide lighting at night and set the mood for entertainment. If string lights aren’t your thing, try hanging a chandelier in the center of the ceiling or an outdoor fan with a light.
5. Add curtains for privacy
If your gazebo faces another home or you simply want the option to add a bit more privacy, try adding curtains in each of the corners. Given that most gazebos are open air on the sides, having curtains will give you a sense of privacy. They’re also sure to add a bit of design pizzazz to your gazebo’s appearance. Make sure to choose curtains that are weatherproof and can withstand the elements.
6. Add a fireplace or firepit
Many backyard gazebos are built around outdoor fireplaces. This allows owners to enjoy their outdoor gazebo year-round – even during the cold winter months. It also gives the gazebo a focal point that isn’t a television and is perfect for families as well as those who enjoy entertaining. Whether it’s cooking s’mores by the fire or hosting a holiday gathering outdoors, a gazebo with a fireplace is sure to be the ideal setting for many future memories.
7. Add a hot tub in the middle
For those who want a hot tub in the backyard but are worried it will be a bit of an eyesore – adding a gazebo around the outside is a great way to beautify any outdoor spa. Given that a gazebo is covered, it also means you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor hot tub rain or shine.
Frequently asked questions about building a gazebo
How much does it cost to build a gazebo?
HomeAdvisor states that the typical cost range for building a gazebo is between $3,401 and $9,554. On average, a gazebo costs just above $6,423 to construct. The website states that pre-built structures and kits cost between $1,500 and $7,000. Custom-built structures cost on average anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 and residential pavilions typically cost between $8,000 and $20,000.
Much of the cost depends on what materials were used. HomeAdvisor provides cost ranges for different materials, including wood ($4,000-$7,000), metal ($3,000-$8,500), brick ($2,000-$3,500), and vinyl ($4,000-$7,500). Plan to build the gazebo yourself? According to HomeAdvisor, it will likely cost you somewhere between $2,000 and $8,500.
Can you purchase a pre-made gazebo?
Yes, you can. If paying a pro to construct a custom build is out of the question, then consider buying a pre-made gazebo. You can find ready-to-build gazebos at the Home Depot, Amazon, Costco, and Lowe’s.
What are the benefits of having a gazebo in your yard?
Gazebos are both beautifying and useful in a number of ways. Not only do these ornamental landscaping features enhance the aesthetics of your home and yard, but they also provide shelter and shade during hot summer months, making them excellent gathering places for holidays and social events. Having a gazebo in your yard is also a big selling point for many homebuyers. After all, who wouldn’t want a covered place to sit, socialize and enjoy being outdoors?
How much does it cost to add extra features to a gazebo?
Chances are good that you’ll want to fancy up your gazebo with plenty of extra features (think: electricity, wiring, flooring, TV install, etc.). Per HomeAdvisor, here are the average costs for these popular gazebo features:
- Outdoor bar or kitchen– $3,500-$18,000
- Patio or pathway – $1,800-$4,800
- Outdoor TV install– $900-$2,000
- Electrical wiring and outlet installation – $180–$500
- Outdoor misting system – $1,900-$3,000
- Stamped concrete flooring cost – $2,800-$6,300
- Surrounding deck – $4,000-$10,000
Can I enclose a gazebo?
Yes, you can enclose a gazebo – although, we should note that this may defeat the point of having a gazebo (which, oftentimes, is to enjoy the outdoors). If you do decide to enclose your gazebo, we recommend using a screen or windows that retract and open, so that you can enjoy the outdoors once the weather warms up. HomeAdvisor notes that for those who wish to enclose their gazebo with a screen, home improvement stores typically sell screen kits for anywhere from $500 to $800. Prefer to enclose your gazebo with something more substantial than a screen? Keep in mind that installing some sort of glass enclosure costs more than using screens. Expect costs to start around $9,000.
What should I consider before building a gazebo in my yard?
Still on the fence about whether or not to add a gazebo to your yard? Here are several questions to consider when making your decision.
- Can you DIY or will you need to hire a pro?
- What is your budget?
- Will it help to sell your home and/or increase its value in the future?
- Will you use it and enjoy it often?
- What kind of structure and materials do you wish to use?
After carefully considering estimated costs, your return on investment, your budget and your own needs, you should have a clear-cut answer to this question.
Referenced from moving.com site